Kimberley O’Brien recently compiled the Pilot Pen Creativity report, investigating the development of creative writing in children and the impact of computer-based learning.
Fostering creativity is crucial for children to assist the development of independent thought, problem solving and the exploration of fact and fiction. Creative children have a greater capacity to develop the vital skills of curiosity, intuition and a preference for complex ideas, research shows. Journalling also enhances emotional regulation and allows for children to understand the triggers for certain emotions, such as anger. In fact, research has shown creative writing and psychotherapy have shared affective experiences that allow for the expression of feelings, accessing the unconscious and self-discovery.
Computers are helpful but research has shown that speed of idea formation and transcription are enhanced and streamlined with traditional handwriting. Handwriting difficulties are one of the most common problems addressed by occupational therapists. Therefore, it is essential that proper handwriting skills are cultivated by ages 8-10, even as computer-based activities are integrated into the school curriculum.
Parents can take an active role to ensure their children have properly developed handwriting skills. Kimberley has compiled a list of tips for parents to adopt at home to foster children’s creativity and handwriting skills. Such tips include using visual reminders such as chalkboards; developing ‘storyboards’ and valuing handcrafted works; initiating pen-pals as well as encouraging fine-motor skills.
The full list of tips are available on the Pilot Pen Website here.
Kimberley O’Brien, our principal child psychologist, discussed helping children with their homework, with Herald Sun reporter, Meg Mason. You can find useful, practical and informative advice about parenting by visiting our
resources page, – or discussing it on
our forum.
To view the full article please visit the Herald Sun online.
If you have a story and would like to discuss it with us, please contact us to schedule a time. Kimberley O’Brien enjoys sharing the best of her therapeutic moments with the media. View our media appearances to-date. Visit our website for more information about our clinic and our team.
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Kimberley O’Brien, our principal child psychologist, discussed the importance of play and play time with ‘The Circle’ Presenter. You can find useful, practical and informative advice about parenting by visiting our
resources page, – or discussing it on
our forum.
Kimberley provided some tips for parents during the segment:
- 1. Observe your child at play and follow their interests.
- 2. Ask your child to explain the rules of the game.
- 3. Wear comfortable clothes and relax.
- 4. Give yourself adequate time to play.
- 5. Rid yourself of any distractions, eg: Blackberry or a chatty adult.
To view more information about the story, visit ‘The Circle Website’
If you have a story and would like to discuss it with us, please contact us to schedule a time. Kimberley O’Brien enjoys sharing the best of her therapeutic moments with the media. View our media appearances to-date.
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Kimberley O’Brien, our principal child psychologist, discussed the busy schedules of today’s children with Catholic Education Office reporter, Kathryn Barton. You can find useful, practical and informative advice about parenting by visiting our
resources page, – or discussing it on
our forum.
This article and Kathryn also won two Highly Commended awards in the ‘Best Mission Coverage’ category for her report on Marist North Shore’s Cambodian immersion and ‘Best Feature’ category for ‘Families in the Fast Lane’ (September 2010). during the ACPA awards see: http://www.ceosyd.catholic.edu.au/News/Pages/AboutCatholicSchoolsWins.aspx
To view the full article please visit the Catholic Education Office website.
If you have a story and would like to discuss it with us, please contact us to schedule a time. Kimberley O’Brien enjoys sharing the best of her therapeutic moments with the media. View our media appearances to-date.
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